Panthers Deliver Stunning Upset Against Rams
The Carolina Panthers pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the NFL season, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31-28 in a thrilling encounter that saw quarterback Bryce Young deliver an exceptional performance. The victory ended the Rams' impressive six-game winning streak and showcased Carolina's growing credentials as playoff contenders.
Young completed 15 of 20 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns, with two of those scoring throws coming on crucial fourth-down situations. The Panthers' defence played an equally vital role, forcing three turnovers from veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Defensive Dominance Seals Victory
Carolina's defensive unit produced game-changing moments throughout the contest. Mike Jackson returned one of Stafford's interceptions for a 48-yard touchdown, while Derrick Brown made significant contributions with a tipped pass that led to another interception and a decisive strip-sack with just 2:25 remaining in the game.
The interception thrown by Stafford ended his remarkable NFL record of 28 consecutive touchdown passes without being picked off. Despite the loss, Stafford managed to complete 18 of 28 passes for 243 yards, connecting with Davante Adams for two touchdown passes - the receiver's 13th and 14th of the season.
AFC South Heats Up as Texans Continue Charge
Meanwhile, the Houston Texans have ignited an unexpected three-way battle for supremacy in the AFC South after securing their fourth consecutive victory, this time against divisional rivals the Indianapolis Colts. The 20-16 win marks a significant turnaround for the Texans, who now sit at 7-5 for the season.
With quarterback CJ Stroud returning to the lineup, the two-time defending South champions have firmly re-established themselves in the division race. The Texans remain undefeated in division games this season and now trail both the Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars by just one victory.
Stroud completed 22 of 35 passes for 276 yards, while receiver Nico Collins caught five passes for 98 yards and added a rushing score. Houston's defence delivered an outstanding performance, holding the NFL's top scoring offence below 20 points for the first time this season and preventing Colts running back Jonathan Taylor from reaching the end zone.
Around the League
In other Week 14 action, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Cleveland Browns 26-8, spoiling Shedeur Sanders' first home start for Cleveland. Brock Purdy rushed for one touchdown and passed for another as the 49ers scored 19 unanswered points after trailing in the second quarter.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers snapped their three-game losing streak with a 20-17 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, while the Jacksonville Jaguars dominated the Tennessee Titans 25-3 to move into a tie with the Colts atop the AFC South.
The Miami Dolphins secured their third straight win by holding off the New Orleans Saints 21-17, with De'Von Achane rushing for 134 yards and a touchdown in the victory.
